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I love the national anthem.

The traditions of a nation are very important and the anthem written by Francis Scott Key in the early days of our nation should always be revered.

Some anthems are great for sports. You've got the Russian national anthem... 'O Canada,' how wonderful is that for hockey... but I chose the Italian national song because at my first World Cup, I saw the Italians play four times, and they won all four times - they won the championship.

Anytime I sing the anthem, it is an honor and my heart beats out of my chest.

I think singing traditional country is wonderful, because I'm bringing it to my generation and to the younger kids.

I happen to love the patriotic songs of America.

Ceremonies are important. But our gratitude has to be more than visits to the troops, and once-a-year Memorial Day ceremonies. We honor the dead best by treating the living well.

I make our family traditions a priority.

And, you know, being able to wear the stars and stripes, when you step up on one of the blocks or, you know, when you step off of an airplane or when you hear the national anthem play, you know, it's one of the greatest feelings in the world because you know that there are people at home who are supporting you and watching you.

I love that there's this tradition of being able to discuss the heaviest topics and the gnarliest stuff that goes down in people's lives in traditional Southern American music.